A nurse is caring for a client who has a mild traumatic brain injury (TBI). Which of the following manifestations should the nurse immediately report to the provider?
A drop in heart rate from 74 to 68/min.
A change in the Glasgow Coma Scale score from 14 to 10.
Headache.
Diplopia.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason: This is incorrect because a drop in heart rate from 74 to 68/min is not a manifestation that requires immediate reporting to the provider. A mild decrease in heart rate can be normal or due to other factors such as medication, sleep, or relaxation. It does not indicate a worsening of brain injury or increased intracranial pressure.
Choice B reason: This is the correct answer because a change in the Glasgow Coma Scale score from 14 to 10 is a manifestation that requires immediate reporting to the provider. The Glasgow Coma Scale is a tool that measures the level of consciousness based on eye-opening, verbal response, and motor responses. A score of 14 indicates mild impairment, while a score of 10 indicates moderate impairment. A decrease in score can indicate deterioration of neurological status and increased intracranial pressure, which can be life-threatening.
Choice C reason: This is incorrect because the headache is not a manifestation that requires immediate reporting to
the provider. Headache is a common symptom of mild TBI and can be managed with analgesics, rest, and hydration. It does not indicate a worsening of brain injury or increased intracranial pressure unless it is severe, persistent, or accompanied by other signs such as vomiting, confusion, or seizures.
Choice D reason: This is incorrect because diplopia is not a manifestation that requires immediate reporting to
the provider. Diplopia means double vision and can be caused by damage to cranial nerves or eye muscles due to TBI. It can be treated with eye patches, glasses, or surgery. It does not indicate a worsening of brain injury or increased intracranial pressure unless it is associated with other symptoms such as blurred vision, loss of vision, or eye pain.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A Reason: This choice is incorrect. Inability to perform within normal limits is a vague and general term that does not describe the specific finding of left facial droop. The nurse should document the exact observation and compare it to the expected or normal range.
Choice B Reason: This choice is incorrect. Symmetrical findings mean that both sides of the body or face are equal or similar in appearance or function. Left facial droop indicates that one side of the face is lower or weaker than the other, which is not symmetrical.
Choice C Reason: This is the correct choice. Asymmetrical findings mean that both sides of the body or face are unequal or different in appearance or function. Left facial droop indicates that one side of the face is lower or weaker than the other, which is asymmetrical.
Choice D Reason: This choice is incorrect. Bilateral strength present means that both sides of the body or face have normal or adequate muscle power or force. Left facial droop indicates that one side of the face has reduced or impaired muscle power or force, which is not bilateral strength present.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A Reason: Head trauma is not one of the top causes of blindness in the United States, but rather a possible cause of it. Head trauma can damage the optic nerve, retina, or brain, leading to vision loss or impairment.
Choice B Reason: Cardiovascular disease is not one of the top causes of blindness in the United States, but rather a risk factor for it. Cardiovascular disease can affect the blood supply and oxygen delivery to the eyes, leading to conditions such as glaucoma, macular degeneration, or retinal vein occlusion.
Choice C Reason: Syphilis is not one of the top causes of blindness in the United States, but rather a rare cause of it. Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection that can affect the eyes, leading to inflammation, scarring, or detachment of the retina.
Choice D Reason: This is the correct choice. Diabetic retinopathy is one of the top causes of blindness in the United States, affecting about 4.1 million adults. Diabetic retinopathy is a complication of diabetes that damages the blood vessels in the retina, leading to bleeding, swelling, or leakage of fluid. It can cause blurred vision, floaters, or blindness if left untreated.
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